Hungerford Hill St Vernay Shiraz 2017

St Vernay vineyard is located on the Hungerford Hill Estate on the northern bank of Middle Creek. Alluvial clay loam soil is mixed with river gravels, consistently providing fruit with a richer expression of Hunter Valley Shiraz. The 2.7 hectare vineyard is named after the Kirby family home, and was planted in 2001. Fermented in open two tonne vats, the St Vernay Shiraz is only made in exceptional vintages. The fruit from this vineyard fruit requires a longer maturation prior to release due to the more opulent nature of the fruit. It is matured in French oak barriques (30% new). The current rate of release is one wine per decade, with the only two vintages made in 2014 and 2017. Dark red fruits of plum and cherry lead to a palate with violet, spice and undulating graphite tannins. A spicy medium-bodied wine with great potential for cellaring. A wine to savour.